Facts about the National Anthem: Did you know?

Patriotism is the feeling of oneness with your country. It involves love, respect as well as service and responsibility. As a citizen, one feels like a whole when opinion and contribution matter.

To instill this spirit in students, Dr Amita Tiwari, a Social Science educator at Apeejay School, Kharghar in Navi Mumbai held a class activity based on the National Anthem for students of class 7. She prepared a lesson plan, PowerPoint presentation and an educational video relevant for the theme.

She says, “As a teacher one tends to keep observing kids. And, during the Republic Day celebrations in our school, I noted that students tend to prolong the National Anthem and often do not understand what its words mean. So, in order to bridge this gap, the school decided to conduct the said activity.”

She further added that even when we go to watch a movie in a theatre, citizens make common mistakes as the National Anthem is sung or played. According to her, timing, code of conduct, manner and tone, is very crucial.

“One must stand straight, keep both hands by the side and face upwards while singing the National Anthem. And, it should conclude in approximately 52 seconds. Further, certain individuals have been provided an exemption from the standing position considering their special abilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, learning disorder, Parkinson’s, day blindness, just to mention a few of them,” Ms Tiwari highlighted.

After the school activity, students understood the inspiration behind the national anthem by learning what events took place while it was written. They became aware of the symbols of importance such as the national flag, animal, and much more. Sharing a message for young learners, the educator says, “The feeling of unity and brotherhood is most important in our country. Respect one another and treat each other with utmost respect.”